COLOMBO: (ePRESS) – The journalism community mourns the loss of Lal Gunesekara, a senior sports writer and veteran journalist who passed away at the age of 73 on Saturday. His funeral, held on Sunday in accordance with his wishes, marked the end of an illustrious career that spanned five decades.
Gunesekara’s journey in journalism began in 1971 at the Daily News, where he started as a sports reporter. Renowned for his coverage of rugby, basketball, and badminton, he established himself as a respected figure in the sports journalism arena.
In the early 1990s, Gunesekara transitioned to the SUNDAY OBSERVER, where he continued to excel in his role. Eventually, he ascended to the position of Sports Editor, a testament to his dedication and expertise. His tenure at the SUNDAY OBSERVER lasted until his retirement in 2008.
Following his retirement, Gunesekara continued to contribute his wealth of experience to the field. He spent approximately three years at the Sunday Leader before joining The Island’s News Desk, where he remained until 2022.
Throughout his career, Gunesekara covered numerous prestigious events, leaving an unforgettable impact on sports journalism. Notable among his assignments were the 1990 and 1998 Rugby Asiad, as well as the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester. His insightful reporting and dedication to his craft earned him widespread respect within the industry.
Lal Gunesekara was renowned for his unyielding strength in writing, embodying a fearless spirit throughout his illustrious career. With a determined focus on his craft, he fearlessly pursued stories, undeterred by external pressures or opinions. Gunesekara’s dedication to his writing was evident in his relentless pursuit of truth and excellence, regardless of any obstacles he encountered along the way. His fearless approach left a lasting impression on the field of journalism, serving as an inspiration to many in the industry.
Lal Gunesekara’s legacy lives on through his contributions to journalism, his passion for sports, and the impact he made on colleagues and readers alike. He will be remembered fondly for his professionalism, integrity, and devotion to his craft.
